In a meaningful continuation of his annual tradition, Russia’s Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar visited Moscow’s historic Butyrki prison during Chanukah, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to supporting Jewish inmates’ religious and spiritual needs.
The visit, which took place on Friday afternoon during Chanukah, began with a warm welcome from prison administrators, who briefed Rabbi Lazar on their collaborative efforts with the Jewish community. Rabbi Aharon Gurevitch, who serves as Chaplain of the Russian Prison Service, accompanied the Chief Rabbi during this important visit.
The prison’s dedicated Jewish prayer room, which hosts regular Torah lessons and holiday celebrations throughout the year, was the venue for a meaningful ceremony. Jewish inmates had the opportunity to put on tefillin and participate in Torah study before the Chanukah candle lighting.
During the ceremony, Rabbi Lazar shared insights from the weekly Torah portion about Joseph, drawing parallels that could offer hope and encouragement to the inmates. He also spoke about the significance of Chanukah, following the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s directive to reach out during this festival, especially to those who are experiencing darker times in their lives.
The visit holds particular historical significance as Butyrki prison, Moscow’s oldest detention facility, once held several prominent Jewish religious figures, including the grandchildren of Rabbi Pinchas of Koritz during the Slavita press incident, and the renowned activist Rabbi Mordechai Dubin.
Rabbi Lazar expressed appreciation for the ongoing work of local Jewish community leaders Rabbi Yitzhak Zilberg and Rabbi Shlomo Dishko, who regularly visit the prison to ensure Jewish inmates can observe Jewish tradition, Shabbat, and holidays throughout the year.
This visit reflects the broader efforts of Moscow’s Jewish community to support Jewish prisoners, with Chanukah menorahs being distributed to Jewish inmates across Moscow’s prison system, ensuring they can participate in the festival of lights despite their circumstances.
Photo: Butyrki Prison Spokesperson
